1. Introduction
Welcome to the user manual for your Behringer X32 Compact Digital Mixing Console and S16 Digital Snake. This comprehensive guide will assist you in understanding the features, setup, operation, and maintenance of your new professional audio equipment. The X32 Compact is designed to provide intuitive control and exceptional audio quality for a wide range of applications, from live sound reinforcement to studio recording. The S16 Digital Snake expands your input/output capabilities, offering remote I/O for flexible stage and studio setups.
2. Product Overview
The Behringer X32 Compact is a 40-input, 25-bus digital mixing console featuring 16 programmable Midas preamps and 17 motorized faders. It offers extensive routing, effects processing, and a USB audio interface for seamless integration with digital audio workstations (DAWs). The S16 Digital Snake provides 16 remote-controllable Midas-designed mic preamps and 8 balanced XLR outputs, connecting to the X32 Compact via a single CAT5e cable using Klark Teknik's SuperMAC technology.
Figure 2.1: The complete Behringer X32 Compact bundle, including the digital mixing console, S16 digital snake, and four XLR cables.
2.1. X32 Compact Digital Mixing Console
Figure 2.2: Top view of the X32 Compact, showcasing its faders, control knobs, and central display screen.
Figure 2.3: Angled view of the X32 Compact, highlighting the ergonomic layout of its controls and the motorized faders.
Figure 2.4: Rear panel of the X32 Compact, showing various input/output connections including XLR, auxiliary inputs, USB, and Ultranet ports.
2.2. S16 Digital Snake
Figure 2.5: Front view of the S16 Digital Snake, displaying its 16 XLR inputs and 8 XLR outputs, along with control knobs and a digital display.
Figure 2.6: Rear panel of the S16 Digital Snake, showing power input, USB, AES50, ADAT, and MIDI connections.
3. Setup
3.1. Initial Connections
- Power Connection: Connect the supplied power cable to the X32 Compact and the S16 Digital Snake, then plug into a suitable power outlet. Ensure the power switches are in the OFF position before connecting.
- Connecting S16 to X32 Compact: Use a shielded CAT5e Ethernet cable (maximum 100m/330ft) to connect the AES50 port A on the S16 to the AES50 port A on the X32 Compact. This single cable carries all 16 inputs and 8 outputs, plus control data.
- Audio Inputs: Connect microphones or line-level sources to the XLR inputs on the S16. For the X32 Compact, use the XLR inputs on the rear panel for direct connections if needed.
- Audio Outputs: Connect your main PA system or studio monitors to the Main L/R XLR outputs on the X32 Compact. Use the S16's XLR outputs for stage monitors or other remote destinations.
- USB Connection (Optional): For recording or playback with a computer, connect a USB cable from the X32 Compact's USB port to your computer. Install necessary drivers if prompted by your operating system.
3.2. Powering On
Once all connections are secure, power on your equipment in the following order:
- Turn on the S16 Digital Snake.
- Turn on the X32 Compact Digital Mixing Console.
- Finally, turn on your power amplifiers or active speakers.
To power off, reverse the order: turn off amplifiers/speakers first, then the X32 Compact, and finally the S16.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1. Basic Navigation and Controls
- Main Display: The large color display provides visual feedback for all parameters. Use the rotary encoders and buttons around the screen to navigate menus and adjust settings.
- Channel Strips: Each channel strip features a motorized fader, Mute, Solo, and Select buttons. The Select button activates the channel for detailed editing on the main display.
- Layer Buttons: Use the layer buttons (e.g., Inputs 1-16, 17-32, Aux In/FX Returns) to switch between different sets of channels on the faders.
- Bus Sends: Assign channels to mix buses (e.g., monitor mixes, effects sends) using the 'Sends on Faders' function or the dedicated bus send controls.
4.2. Signal Routing
The X32 Compact offers extensive routing flexibility. Access the 'Routing' menu on the main display to assign physical inputs to console channels, and console outputs to physical output jacks. For the S16, ensure its AES50 port is correctly assigned as an input source for your desired channels.
4.3. Effects Processing
The console includes 8 true-stereo (16 mono) effects engines. Navigate to the 'Effects' section to select, configure, and assign various effects such as reverbs, delays, and dynamics processors to channels or buses.
4.4. Scene Management
The X32 Compact can store up to 100 total recall scenes, including preamp and fader settings. Use the 'Scenes' section to save, load, and manage different console configurations for various performances or setups.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Regularly wipe down the console and snake with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, but ensure no liquid enters the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Behringer website for firmware updates. Keeping your console's firmware up-to-date ensures optimal performance, new features, and bug fixes. Follow the instructions provided with the firmware update carefully.
- Storage: When not in use, store the equipment in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If transporting, use a dedicated flight case to protect against physical damage.
6. Troubleshooting
6.1. Common Issues and Solutions
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound output | Mute engaged, faders down, incorrect routing, faulty cables, amplifier off. | Check all mute buttons, raise faders, verify routing in the 'Routing' menu, test cables, ensure amplifiers are on and receiving signal. |
| S16 not recognized by X32 | Faulty CAT5e cable, incorrect AES50 port, S16 not powered on. | Ensure S16 is powered, use a known good CAT5e cable, connect to correct AES50 port (A to A). |
| Motorized faders not moving | Fader calibration issue, power supply problem, internal fault. | Try recalibrating faders via the 'Setup' menu. If problem persists, contact support. |
| Display frozen or unresponsive | Software glitch, power fluctuation. | Perform a power cycle (turn off, wait 30 seconds, turn on). If persistent, consider a factory reset (refer to manual for procedure). |
6.2. Factory Reset
A factory reset will revert all settings to their default state. This can resolve persistent software issues but will erase all custom scenes and configurations. Refer to the official Behringer X32 Compact manual for the precise factory reset procedure.
7. Specifications
Below are key specifications for the Behringer X32 Compact Digital Mixing Console and S16 Digital Snake:
- Number of Channels: 32 input channels, 8 aux in channels, 8 FX return channels, 16 buses, 6 matrices, Main LRC
- Effects Engine: Internal: 8 true-stereo / 16 mono
- Scene File Memory: 100 total recall scenes (including preamp and fader)
- Signal Processing: 40-bit floating point
- Product Dimensions: 29 x 25 x 12.75 inches
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Connectivity Technology: Auxiliary, USB, AES50 (for S16)
- Output Connector Type: XLR
8. Warranty and Support
8.1. Warranty Information
This product is covered by an Adorama 1 Year Limited Warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For full details regarding warranty terms and conditions, refer to the warranty documentation provided with your purchase or contact Adorama customer service.
8.2. Technical Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or service inquiries, please contact Behringer customer support. You can find contact information and additional resources on the official Behringer website (www.behringer.com).
